Kane Williamson exits IPL 2023 after sustaining right knee injury against Chennai Super Kings

Positioned at deep mid-wicket, Williamson leapt in the air to grab the ball that was heaved by Chennai batter Ruturaj Gaikwad.

Kane Williamson ruled out of IPL 2023

The Gujarat Titans might have begun IPL 2023 on a winning note but for Kane Williamson, their marquee player, the tournament, unfortunately, ends right after the season opener. After sustaining an injury in his right knee during his fielding stint at the boundary line, the Kiwi batter has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2023, causing a major upset for both fans and the Titans' team management.

"We regret to announce, Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the TATA IPL 2023, after sustaining an injury in the season opener against Chennai Super Kings. We wish our Titan a speedy recovery and hope for his early return," read the tweet posted by Gujarat Titans earlier today, on April 2.

Positioned at deep mid-wicket, Williamson leapt in the air to grab the ball that was heaved by Chennai batter Ruturaj Gaikwad. The former, who spotted the opportunity for a catch, managed to catch the ball but ended up landing rather awkwardly on his right leg which caused the injury. He would end up saving two runs for his team (the ball would bounce and roll into the boundary cushions) but at the cost of his knee - Kane Williamson was immediately spotted clutching his leg and squealing in pain.

B Sai Sudarshan came on to the ground as his fielding replacement and he would eventually be swapped with Williamson as part of the new 'Impact Player' rule.

The official New Zealand or Black Caps social media handle confirmed Kane Williamson's exit from IPL 2023 and added that his injury will be further assessed once he reaches home. "Preparations are now underway for him to return to NZ next week and be seen by relevant medical specialists to establish a treatment plan," said the tweet.

Fans and the NZ management would certainly hope that the injury is only a temporary one, considering that the 50-over men's ICC World Cup is only a few months away. Williamson has been New Zealand's white-ball captain since 2016 and is expected to lead the team into the upcoming world cup as well. More updates to follow.

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